What happens if I sign up?

When you get registered at our dental practice as an NHS patient, your friendly receptionist will confirm the following:

  1. Your name, address, and a medical history form will be required.
  2. To register with the practice, you will be required to sign a form.
  3. Make an appointment for a dental exam.
  4. Give you a dental information brochure, which will tell you about our office and the services we provide.
  5. You could ask that your entire family be registered at the same time.
  6. Children should be enrolled when they are six months old or when their first tooth develops.

What comes next after I sign up?

  • New patients will be scheduled for a dental examination. During the check-up, the dentist will:
  • Ask about any health issues and medicines you are taking.
  • Check into your teeth, gums, and mouth. X-rays could be performed.
  • Tell you how to care for your mouth, teeth, and gums, and
  • Inform you if you require treatment.

If you require treatment, your dentist will:

  • Discuss your options, including what treatments are available through the NHS.
  • Let you know how much the treatment might cost and provide you with a written estimate.
  • Give you a dental plan detailing the treatment you need.
  • Make an appointment for you to return for additional treatment.

Once you’ve registered with the practice, you can stay for as long as you want. However, if you miss your routine dental appointments, your dentist may opt to terminate your registration.

What exactly is a Treatment Plan?

A treatment plan is a document that states:

  • The Dental Treatment you need to keep your mouth and gums healthy.
  • The overall cost of Treatment.

At your check-up session, you will be given a treatment plan and an estimate; if this changes, your friendly dentist will inform you. You can take a copy with you.

What services are available through the NHS?

As a registered NHS patient, you can receive all of the care, guidance, and treatment you need to maintain the health of your mouth, teeth, and gums.

If you want cosmetic treatment done, you must pay for it privately. Some treatments, for example, are not covered by the NHS.

  • White fillings in the back teeth
  • Teeth whitening
  • Back teeth that have white crowns
  • Dental implants and facial procedures

Most dentists who give NHS treatment also provide private dental care. If you choose private treatment, your friendly dental practice in Paisley will:

  • Detail the range of treatments available.
  • Inform you of the cost of any private treatment.
  • Discuss your treatment options and provide you with a cost estimate.

Will I be required to pay for NHS Treatment?

All adults over the age of 26 must pay. The Scottish Government sets NHS prices in Paisley.

If you pay for treatment, your friendly dentist will provide you with a cost estimate before treatment begins, but some adults may be eligible for free dental care.

If any of the following conditions apply, NHS treatment is free:

  • You had a baby within the last 12 months or are pregnant.
  • You get income support, pension credit, income-based job seekers allowance, tax credits, or a current HC2/3 form.

If you do not pay NHS charges or get financial assistance, you must notify your friendly dental staff. You will be required to provide proof of this. Please bring the necessary documentation to your first consultation at our practice in Paisley to show your exemption.

What should I expect from my dentist?

Your helpful dentist will:

  • Give you whatever NHS dental care you need to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy.
  • Discuss your treatment options and let you know what treatments are available through the NHS.
  • Provide you with an estimate of the treatment cost and have you sign a copy.
  • Inform you of any changes to your treatment.

What should my dental practice expect from me?

You must:

  • Attend all of your dental visits.
  • If you are unable to attend your appointment, please notify the office within 24-48 hours; failure to do so may result in a fee.
  • Inform your dentist if any of your personal information changes.
  • You must pay for your treatment at each appointment.
  • Respect the dental staff. If you are abusive, violent, or threaten a member of your dental practice’s staff or another patient, your dentist could decline to treat you and terminate your registration immediately.
  • Follow the guidelines for maintaining your mouth, teeth, and gums.
  • Follow the guidelines for taking care of your child’s mouth, teeth, and gums.
  • Inform your dentist of any changes in your overall health or medication.
  • If you cannot understand something, ask.

Childsmile Programme

Childsmile is a nationwide campaign aimed at improving children’s oral health, and reducing inequalities in health and access to dental services in Paisley and other areas.

The programme is also intended to introduce children to the dental environment at an early age to enhance dental health and minimise dental decay. Dental appointments are scheduled for the child regularly beginning at six months of age.

This covers advice on dental health, weaning, teething, and toothbrush use. We also offer complimentary dental packs, twice-yearly fluoride varnish applications on children’s teeth beginning at the age of two, and frequent check-ups.

Families can make an appointment at the practice or through a referral from a dental health support worker.

Nervous Patients

Every patient is unique, and we aim to make your dental visit as pleasant as possible.

We understand that some people have a fear of the dentist. However our professional and friendly staff will be on hand every step of the way. We will be patient with you and work at your pace, always explaining the treatment and how it will progress.

If you are concerned about going to the dentist, please contact us on 0141 991 1234 to discuss your worries. We will do all possible to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible and to set your mind at ease in advance of your visit.